The AFL are likely to fine Essendon over an administrative bungle in the lead up to Saturday night's loss to Brisbane.

The Bombers made a mistake with the team sheet they handed to the Lions, listing the injured Mark McVeigh in the lineup instead of Ricky Dyson.

Lions coach Michael Voss apparently reorganised some of his matchups when he saw McVeigh's name on the team sheet.

Essendon football manager Paul Hamilton says the staff responsible for the error have been counselled.

He added the AFL are sending the club a "please explain" letter for the embarrassing episode.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP